Side Tables Over Time

Side tables have become a recurring part of my work, with each one taking a slightly different direction in shape, timber and construction. Some start with a specific piece of wood, others with a detail or technique I want to try. Over time, the designs naturally evolve with new ideas, tools and experience, while every table remains its own piece.

01 — FORM > MATERIAL

THE ARBOR

The Arbor is shaped around the natural growth of a tree. Four solid ash legs rise from a shared base and branch outward toward the tabletop, creating the defining form of the piece. The top was assembled to achieve a calm, balanced grain pattern, while custom brass connectors underneath provide a strong fixing and a subtle contrasting detail.

02 — MATERIAL STORY

THE TRACE

The Trace is built around a solid cherry top that preserves the marks left in the wood over time. Natural voids, worm tracks and irregular grain were kept visible and stabilised with translucent green-gold epoxy rather than hidden. A flowing solid ash base supports the top, adding a lighter contrast while keeping the focus on the original character of the cherry.

03 — EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN & Material

VIENNA SIDE TABLE

The Vienna table takes the idea further through a more experimental mix of materials and techniques, combining a sunburst ash veneer top, black-stained legs and Vienna cane. Sliding dovetails and visible joinery became part of the design as well. Because of the number of distinct details and experiments involved, the project is documented separately.

Project Videos

Follow the complete building process through a collection of short videos, showcasing the techniques, details and challenges behind this project.

 Project Essentials

A selection of the tools and materials that played the biggest role in this project. Everyday workshop essentials such as the table saw, planer and sanders are intentionally left out.

  • Materials

  • Tools

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Interested in something similar? 

Every piece can be adapted in dimensions, lumber and details or developed into a completely new design.